Heart of Country

Annual events celebrated in and around the Heart of Country are a true reflection of the region's vibrant culture and rich history. From quirky festivals to renowned sporting events, the area offers a diverse range of events that enthralls visitors year after year.

Here's a closer look at some of the incredibly popular annual events in the Heart of Country:

1. Tamworth Country Music Festival: Considered one of Australia's biggest music events, the Tamworth Country Music Festival is celebrated annually in January. The event showcases over 2,800 performers across 700 different shows, featuring country music, street performances and even busking.

2. Nundle Go for Gold Chinese Easter Festival: Held during Easter, the Nundle Go for Gold Chinese Easter Festival is a delight for visitors who want to experience the region's rich cultural heritage. Held in historic gold-mining villages, the festival features everything from Chinese cuisine to calligraphy, martial arts demonstrations and live musical performances.

3. Lightning Ridge Opal Festival: Celebrating the arts, history and culture of this unique outback community, the Lightning Ridge Opal Festival is a spectacle to behold. The festival features over 100 stalls, offering gems, crafts, jewelry and other products made from opal. There are also entertainment shows, live music and street performers to keep visitors entertained.

4. Gunnedah Show: Held in May, The Gunnedah Show is an event visitors to the Heart of Country look forward to every year. The two-day event features equestrian events, livestock judging, and a wide range of competitions, including woodchopping and dog high-jumping.

5. The Trundle ABBA Festival: The Trundle ABBA Festival is a unique event that celebrates the music of ABBA. The festival is held annually over two days, and it brings people from all over the world to dance to ABBA's hit songs, watch tribute shows, and enjoy the many other festivities held during the event.

6. Parkes Elvis Festival: Paying homage to the King of Rock N Roll, the Parkes Elvis Festival is a five-day event that takes place in January. The festival features tribute acts, buskers in Elvis attire and parachutists dropping from the sky wearing Elvis jumpsuits. The event attracts thousands of visitors every year to this heartland of Australia.

7. Moree On A Plate - Food and Wine Festival: Celebrating the region's diverse cuisine, Moree On A Plate - Food and Wine Festival is a culinary event held in May. The festival features a range of food stalls and wine tastings, as well as cooking classes, live music performances and other entertainment.

8. Nyngan Riverside Markets: Nyngan Riverside Markets is one of the region's popular outdoor markets, showcasing local produce, crafts, art and music. Held monthly from September to April, the market takes place in a stunning riverside location, attracting crowds of visitors from all over the Heart of Country.

9. Narrabri Markets: Narrabri Markets is a local monthly market, held on the second Sunday of each month. Visitors can enjoy a range of handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, and local produce including fruit, vegetables, honey, and meats.

these annual events that take place in the Heart of Country are a testament to the region's lively spirit, rich heritage, and love for the arts. Whether you’re in the mood for music, art, cuisine, sport, or culture, the Heart of Country has got you covered. Visitors to the area are assured to have a truly unforgettable experience when they attend any of these events.